Schalke coach Huub Stevens will make changes to his starting line-up as his side continue their attempt to qualify for the knockout stages of the Champions League.

PA PhotosLewis Holtby could be dropped against Arsenal

Stevens, whose players take on Arsenal at home on Tuesday having already beaten them 2-0 in London, saw his side succumb to a last-minute Bundesliga defeat to Hoffenheim at the weekend.

But he said the changes were "nothing to do with the defeat", explaining: "It's our general freshness. Some of the players are a little tired after our recent busy schedule."

Schalke conceded the decisive goal in stoppage time, and 22-year-old keeper Lars Unnerstall, who has been under the spotlight after some shaky recent performances, was again criticised.

Former Germany international Timo Hildebrandt, 33, the club's second-choice keeper, had recently complained that he was not being given a fair chance to compete for the No.1 spot.

But, asked about the goalkeeping position, Stevens said only: "We have three great goalies, and one of them will be in goal."

Meanwhile, Greek centre-back Kyriakos Papadopoulos could return to the starting formation despite suffering a cut to the head against Hoffenheim.

Midfielder Lewis Holtby could be rotated out of the starting line-up, with Julian Draxler coming in for him.

"I am 22, and I know haven't played my best games recently - I am also annoyed by that," Holtby said. "But I am motivated and fit, I am ready for Arsenal."

If Schalke beat Arsenal they will become one of the first teams to qualify for the last 16, but Stevens warned: "The only thing that counts is the task ahead of us. And it isn't easy.

"Arsenal are a good side with lots of quality. I've watched their recent games very attentively. We've prepared well."